Pulpotomy

Does your child have a toothache? Not sure what to do? A toothache can be a sign of a dental emergency. If your child has pain in their mouth, it’s time for a visit to the dentist in Oklahoma City, OK and Midwest City, OK. It may be that your child needs a pulpotomy, also known as a baby root canal.

What Is a Pulpotomy?

A pulpotomy is a procedure performed on infected baby teeth. An infection can occur when a cavity creates a pit in the outer layer of the tooth and attacks the pulp inside. This causes pain, and can even lead to loss of the tooth. A pulpotomy is a procedure wherein the dentist removes the infected pulp and treats the inside of the tooth to remove the infection. After this, the dentist places a crown on the tooth (or even a filling) to protect the tooth and remaining pulp.

What Is the Difference Between a Root Canal and a Pulpotomy?

During a root canal, all pulp from the tooth is removed. During a pulpotomy, some pulp is left inside the tooth. The remaining pulp helps keep the tooth alive, allowing the roots to continue to grow. This is important to ensure the adult teeth will erupt properly.

How Can I Tell If My Child Needs a Pulpotomy?

Infections in the tooth can be painful, so the most obvious sign that something like this is needed is pain in the tooth. You may also notice a problem like a hole in the child’s tooth, a crack in the enamel or discolorations on the tooth. This is a sign of damage or a cavity, both of which can lead to an infection.

Contact Smiling Faces Pediatric Dentistry Today

A toothache can be a sign of a serious problem, so if your child is experiencing this, get help as soon as possible. Call Smiling Faces Pediatric Dentistry today; we’ll be able to tell you if your child needs a pulpotomy in Oklahoma City or Midwest City OK.